What makes a great man?

I find it interesting what some non-believers say about Jesus. Mostly they will say something to the effect that Jesus was a "great man", or "charismatic philosopher".

What do we know about Jesus from non-Christian historical accounts? The Romans and Jews of the first and second century had many writings about Jesus. However, most of these accounts just verify the basic facts about a historical man named Jesus, who was a Nazarene. These accounts tell of his trial before Pilate, His crucifiction, the "eclipse" that coincided with this event, and the sect that sprang up claiming His resurrection. Many of these accounts also call Jesus a great man. (Josephus even calls Jesus the messiah).

There is nothing in these basic facts that make Jesus a "great man". These historical records are widely accepted in the non-Christian world, eventhough the writers take for granted the existance of a man named Jesus, and the fact that he was a great man.

Christianity is more than a philosophy or teachings. It is about a real man who existed in history. What made this man great? The typical standards for accepting writings as 'valid history' can be applied to the New Testament accounts. This is the only place where you will find what makes a great man.

Where have you been looking?